India's antitrust watchdog, the CCI, is expediting its proceeding against Apple's business practices, as it agrees to provide big tech access to confidential information before starting the final hearing in the case.
CCI, in its probe findings, alleged Apple of abusing its dominant position and violating competition laws.
The matter assumes significance if charges against Apple are proven; then it could lead to a penalty for big tech.
CCI had last week agreed to set up a “confidentiality ring” before the final hearing, an official source privy to the development told NDTV Profit.
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According to him, the regulator is expected to start its final hearing early next year.
“Under the confidentiality ring, selective parties, including Apple, get access to sensitive confidential information. Post access of information, Apple may be required to file a reply on the CCI probe report, and accordingly, the hearing will begin,” the source explained.
The so-called "confidentiality ring" regime governs the treatment of confidential information in its proceedings, helping regulators in the fast disposal of cases.
In this case, Apple may be given four weeks time to access the information and accordingly asked to file a reply. “Apple and some other selectively related entities will be given a chance to physically verify the documents and details of the probe report and maybe be given a certified copy of those docs,” the source cited above said.
The CCI began its investigation in 2021, focusing on Apple's business practice where developers use its in-app purchase system, which charges up to a 30% commission.
CCI investigation had found that Apple exploited its dominant position in the market for app stores on its iOS operating system, detrimental to app developers, users, and other payment processors.
In August, Apple raised concerns over the CCI probe report, citing disclosing commercial secrets to competitors.
The CCI had asked parties to return the reports and destroy any copies. The regulator then issued new reports.
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